Carl Starfelt has opened up on his decision to swap Celtic for Celta Vigo this summer transfer window.

The Sweden centre-back made 87 appearances for the Hoops and won five trophies after joining from Rubin Kazan two years ago, but his exit was confirmed yesterday.

Starfelt will now play his football in La Liga and he admits he is excited for a new challenge.

Speaking at a press conference after being unveiled, the defender said: "I want to try myself in the Spanish league, which is one of the best competitions in the world. I believe in the project that Celta is building; it seems very nice to me. I spoke with Luis Campos and the coach, and they both showed me their interest in to join this project."

"My first day here has been very good, I have had the opportunity to get to know the team, both my new teammates and the coaching staff. I really want to start."

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers signalled on Saturday that Starfelt was on his way out after giving the defender a farewell appearance off the bench during the champions’ 4-2 win over Ross County.

The centre-half’s partner, Jacynta Galabadaarachchi, left Celtic for Sporting Lisbon this summer and Starfelt was keen to follow her out of Glasgow.

Rodgers said on Saturday: “He probably felt it was the time to move on.

“There are certain conditions there that has made him think he will be going to one of the top leagues, and economically it’s hard for us to compete on that side, and obviously his partner is no longer here and has moved on.”

A Celtic club statement read: “Everyone at Celtic wishes Carl Starfelt every success in his future career.”